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Have Your Pet Avoid These Toxic Human Foods

November 1, 2015

It can be tempting to give your pet a morsel of human food every now and again. Make sure you’re not slipping them something dangerous! Here, your Folsom, CA veterinarian tells you about some of the most common human foods that are toxic to animals.

Grapes and Raisins

Grape and raisin toxicity is most often reported in dogs, likely because of their indiscriminate tastes, but they have also been known to poison cats. The exact agent of toxicity isn’t known, but keep grapes and their dried counterparts away from your pet.

Caffeinated Items

Caffeine is a big no-no for pets, as it can cause respiratory distress, heart palpitations, and bleeding in large enough amounts. Coffee and tea are the most common culprits, but keep in mind that sodas, chocolate, cocoa, energy drinks, and other products pose a risk.

Chocolate and Candy

Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, chemicals that pets should never have. Candy, gums, and some baked goods may be sweetened with xylitol, an artificial sugar that is toxic to pets. Keep chocolate or candy treats far out of your pet’s reach.

Onions

Did you know that onions are toxic to dogs? They may also harm our feline companions. This goes for onions in all forms (raw, cooked, diced, dehydrated, powdered, etc.). Onion toxicity can lead to life-threatening anemia, so don’t let your pet chow down. Also beware of foods that may contain onions, like soups or pizza.

Avocado

You may find an avocado or guacamole delicious, but pets should never partake. Avocados contain a substance called persin, which is toxic to pets if enough is ingested. Persin is found in all parts of the avocado plant—the fruit, seeds, leaves, and bark—so take care if you grow avocado plants in your garden at home.

Alcohol

Did you know that alcohol affects pets the same way it affects us? The only difference is that far less is required to do serious organ damage, especially if your pet is on the smaller side. Pets suffering from alcohol poisoning can experience diarrhea, vomiting, depression, difficulty breathing, and even death if left untreated. Never allow your pet anywhere near beer, liquor, wine, champagne, or foods cooked with alcohol.

Keep your Folsom, CA animal hospital’s number on hand to call in the event of an emergency. Be sure to ask your veterinary professional about other toxic foods you may have in your home.

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